Topic: The Scientific Method PSSA: 3.2.7.A / S8.A.2.1

Objective: TLW use the steps of the scientific method to solve problems. TLW identify the parts of a scientific experiment.

MI #1: What is the Scientific Method? The scientific method is a systematic approach to problem solving. The scientific method typically includes 7 steps.

MI #2: Stating Problems and Gathering Information Step 1 – State the Problem The first thing that a scientist does is identify the specific problem he/she is trying to solve. Step 2 – Gather Information A scientist will gather information about a problem to develop a good hypothesis.

MI #3: Hypothesis Step 3 – Form a Hypothesis A hypothesis is a proposed solution to a scientific problem (an educated guess –this why information is gathered). A hypothesis is typically made as an If/Then statement (If this happens, then this will happen).

MI #4: Experimentation Step 4 – Experimentation The scientist will design an experiment that tests his/her hypothesis. Independent variable – the factor being tested. Dependent Variable – the factor being measured, counted, or observed. Control – the experiment without the IV. Constants – the factors that remain the same throughout the experiment.

MI #5: Recording Data Step 5 – Recording and Analyzing Data Scientists record data in the form of measurements, counts, or observations. Scientists then organize their data into graphs and charts for easy reading.

MI #6: Conclusions and Do-Overs Step 6 – Draw a Conclusion Scientists will draw a conclusion to their hypothesis based on the data from the experiment. If your hypothesis is wrong, do not change it…note that it is wrong. Repeat Work For scientific research to be considered valid (true) it must be published in a reputable scientific journal.

So What…Real Life Application The scientific method is the standard for problem solving….you use it everyday, you just don’t realize it.